Jimmy Kimmel’s Monologue Really Makes You Think…

The monologue from Jimmy Kimmel on Monday night was not just heartfelt, it spoke volumes for the fact that preexisting conditions affect millions of Americans and the ACA provides a solution. We can all relate to this story.

“I have a story to tell about something that happened to our family this week” which he said through a tearful voice. Kimmel went into the story about how his beautiful son William and his tragic heart defect that threatened his life. This small baby boy had open-heart surgery to repair the damage to his heart, hours after birth.

The outcome was a wonderful success, Kimmel assured the audience, and he showed darling photos of his son. However, the statement he made about pre-existing conditions protections from the ACA was something Americans must consider.

If the pre-existing condition clause is gone, so would the coverage for children like Kimmel’s, some of which need care immediately, but were still born with “pre-existing condition.”

“No parent should have to decide if they can afford to save their child’s life,” Kimmel said tearfully.

While this was a change of tone from the host’s normal show, it was earnest and personal. It always seems it takes something personal to understand the consequences of decisions made by our government. Kimmel has seemingly strayed away from anything overtly political, however, since Trump’s election he has voiced his opinion more openly.

Former President Obama responded through Twitter:

Well said, Jimmy. That’s exactly why we fought so hard for the ACA, and why we need to protect it for kids like Billy. And congratulations! https://t.co/77F8rZrD3P

“We were brought up to believe that we live in the greatest country in the world, but until a few years ago, millions and millions of us had no access to health insurance at all,” said Kimmel. “Before 2014, if you were born with a congenital heart disease like my son, there is a good chance you would never be able to get health insurance because you had a pre-existing condition.”
Kimmel’s plea comes as Republicans are making concessions with the Conservative Freedom Caucus to repeal the ACA, with a vote expected any day.

Two things are certain: healthcare is complicated and change will not be swift. Much has to be considered and the American people are the ones who will be affected. It is never good to hear about an illness at birth, and thankfully, the Kimmel family had a good outcome. It is always great to have a positive conclusion and with that, we hope that more will be considered as the ACA is now in the hands of the GOP and any change has ramifications that affect us all.